Oman Air, Etihad among airlines banning check-in of Apple MacBook Pro

There have been safety concerns regarding the batteries in the 15-inch MacBook Pro devices.

Oman Air has joined the list of carriers refusing to allow MacBook Pro laptops in checked-in luggage on its flights, according to sister title Arabian Business.

The ban is reportedly in light of safety concerns over the batteries in the 15-inch MacBook Pro devices and the potential fire risk they pose, although they are allowed as part of carry-on luggage.

A statement from the airline said: “For the safety of our guests and crew, Oman Air has prohibited the carriage of older generation 15-inch Macbook Pro models in checked luggage.

"Guests are to refrain from bringing the affected models in checked baggage. They may be allowed as hand-carry provided they remain switched off throughout the flight, protected from accidental activation, and not to be charged during the flight.”

Other airlines that have issued a similar ban include Etihad Airways, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways and Virgin Australia. Emirates will currently not join this list, confirmed Arabian Business.